Ghana is 67 Years Old!

Did you know?

6th of March is a day of celebration to mark independence. In 1957, Kwame Nkrumah as the first president led the country into independence from the British; Ghana was the first country in Sub-Saharan Africa to become independent.

February has been a busy month with a successful Fundraising Gala in partnership with Pearlstone Alternative leading straight back into a full force of 37 programmes across 14 schools throughout the Ga West District in Ghana.

And on top of that, we have been busy getting ready for our Ghana Independence Day celebrations which are coming up during the week of the 6th of March! (4th-10th of March)

To mark this special day we are running a week long celebration campaign.

We will be sharing videos from our team and partners on all our social media platforms and introducing you to our core team throughout the week.

To stay on theme we aim to raise £670 and are searching for a match donor who can help us double that!

  This will enable us to complete wave 1 of Get Global and Get Local that began in October 2023. 

251 students

4 schools

10 programmes

9 facilitators

We appreciate your support in making this happen and we’ll be sure to keep your brain buzzing with our mini history lessons throughout the week. 

Make sure you are signed up to our mailing list and follow us on our social media platforms!

Move the World Fundraising Gala – Lovers and Bluffers

We, alongside Pearlstone Alternative are so excited to host you at the beautiful Mandarin Oriental – Hyde Park Ballroom this Thursday, 8th February 2024!

Thank you for your support and get ready for an incredible evening filled with live music, casino tables and a whole lot more.

We are honoured to have the support of many companies and organisations for this years Fundraising Gala Auction.

Thanks to them, we have quite the selection of auction items for you!
So take a look and come ready to bid!

Tickets are still available for friends, family members and colleagues.
Ticket Link

See you soon and Medaase Paa

How 2023 Ended

Hawa, Social Media Officer, runs through the final 2 months of 2023 as we gear up for 2024!

2023 was an interesting year from its start to finish. Move The world had a lot in store for us all and we duly executed them.

In November, we had our managing director come to Ghana to take us through some organizational trainings(for the CORE TEAM) and she also held a full team training(Facilitators inclusive). It was all learning new things and sharing ideas until the GREAT DECEMBER came….Haha. We all were excited because December brings lots of joys, fun and memories.

We held our annual staff Christmas video and 2023 we decided to change the narrative, we went OLD SCHOOL, yes!!! Old School. Facilitators dolled up themselves in the 60’s to 90’s attire and it was a sight to behold!! They took their Christmas videos and had time to take some pictures. We were also graced by the presence of some TRUSTEES of Move The World and they had their share of the fun.

Our students were not left out, we had a few of them sing out the 12days of Christmas in our own version(Using the Sustainable Development Goals), sometimes we need to get creative, you agree right!! Hahaha – be sure to check out the final compilation below!

2023 December was a sweet and an amazing month and we hope this year brings nothing less to what last year gave us.

Our Annual Christmas Video

Every year to spread some cheer and bring our team together, we come together in various parts of the world and create our Christmas video. We have been doing this since 2015 and this year we have a very special treat – we think its one of the best so far.

Credit to the whole team including our amazing trustees and music credit to John Legend.

MTW Christmas Video 2023

Leadership Workshop with Al-Rayan International School and JUMP! Foundation

Hawa and Michael spent the week with JUMP! Foundation on their programme delivery at Al-Rayan International School in September 2023. Have a read on their reflections and learnings…

Leadership skills are not innate but can be nurtured and developed through effective programs.

At Al-Rayan International School, a week-long leadership program was held to equip students with the essential tools and knowledge to become successful leaders in the future. The program aimed to instil in students various qualities such as confidence, communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.

We had the opportunity through Move The World as lead facilitators to work with the JUMP! Foundation (the students created a new name for us: JOVE THE WORLD) to design a holistic learning experience for the participating students in Al-Rayan International School.

The program was divided into workshops, interactive sessions, group activities to ensuring a comprehensive understanding of leadership principles and practices. With sessions focused on self-awareness and reflection. Students were encouraged to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and personal values. They were guided to reflect on their goals, aspirations, and the kind of leader they aspired to become. We must say, (Michael and Hawa) from designing programs (Intensive and educative) to training students on leadership and facilitation skills to help them in their upcoming conference was an eye opening experience!!

It was our first time (Michael and Hawa) being in an international school like Al-Rayan and getting very close to their students, what we experienced was far different from what we expected. Hearing “International School”, we admit that we were thinking we’d see “spoilt and not so cooperative”students, but we couldn’t be more wrong and we met students that were willing to learn, listen and share ideas.

One of the significant benefits of the program was the opportunity for students to establish relationships with peers from different backgrounds and cultures. The bonds formed during the program generated a diverse network of future leaders, fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas beyond the program’s duration.

The success of the leadership program at Al-Rayan International School exemplifies a profound impact on a well-designed and executed program by JUMP! Foundation and Move the World to develop their inspiring stories served as motivation and guidance for the students to illustrate that leadership has no boundaries.

The Day ‘STOP’ Became Reality

At Move The World, we explore mindfulness practices and their impact on our Sustainable Development Goal of promoting good health and well-being (Goal 3). As a facilitator, my aim was to introduce these young minds to the power of being present, attentive, and kind towards oneself and others.

During one of our sessions in a primary six class, we delved into various mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, body scans, and gratitude practices. The students were initially curious but also a bit restless, as sitting still and quieting their minds seemed like a difficult task. However, with encouragement and patience, they gradually began to embrace the practices, discovering the benefits they had to offer.

Little did I know that the impact of these mindfulness sessions would extend beyond the classroom walls. One day, an argument erupted between a group of students after the school closed. It started off as a minor disagreement but quickly escalated into a full-blown conflict. Voices were raised, tempers flared, and the situation seemed to be spiraling out of control.

In the midst of the chaos, one student who had fully embraced the mindfulness practices we had learned stepped forward. With a calm demeanor and a compassionate heart, reminded everyone to take a step back, to pause, and to take a deep breathe.

The effect was almost magical. As if under a spell, the students heeded their peer’s advice and followed suit. They took deep breaths, allowing themselves a moment of stillness amidst the turmoil. As their minds quieted and clarity emerged, they realized the insignificance of the argument in light of their shared goals and friendship.
Using the mindfulness practices they had learned, the students were able to resolve the conflict peacefully and restore harmony among themselves.

As a facilitator, witnessing this transformation was truly heartwarming. It reinforced the power of mindfulness practices in promoting good health and well-being, both individually and collectively. These primary six students demonstrated that mindfulness is not just a concept to be discussed in theory but a practical tool that can be applied in everyday life.

The impact of mindfulness practices on Goal 3 of Sustainable Development was appreciated in this class. Through a single intervention, a student stopped a potentially violent situation, fostering understanding, empathy, and peace. This serves as a reminder that practicing mindfulness not only benefits oneself but also has the potential to positively influence the world around us.

Get Involved – Get Your Company on Board

We have been incredibly fortunate over the years to gain support from people around the world and from various expertise.

So many companies now offer volunteering days and we would love to chat with you on how you can support us this coming year.

A few options to tell your company about are Matchable and Benevity. We have had volunteers and consultants from both and the best thing is its limited time – but of course you’re welcome to stay for longer and help us grow and expand!

The biggest thing you can do to support us is share the word but we love when our supporters have ideas for us and can bring them to life.
If you notice something on our website, social media or communications you think we could use an update in – get in touch! Let’s learn together.

If you think you can support with event planning or setting up a challenge to fundraise- get in touch!

We appreciate you, we value your support and commitment and we love to grow alongside you. 

If you’re interested in giving some of your time email Claire – hello@movetheworld.co 

Medaase paa

Impact with Kwesi

Michael Woma, also known by his day name, Kwesi, has been with Move the World since the very beginning and has been influential in developing programmes, strategic views and all around advocacy for the community.
Kwesi is currently studying Education at the University of Winneba and looking towards a future in supporting under-served populations in Ghana.

Educating my community on the sustainable development goals for this past years has made me realized how much knowledge I was able to impact in these young kids as well as myself!

Working with Move the world has given me the insight to understand that classrooms and outdoor engagement is very critical to effective teaching and there are many ways one can go about them. “Try different approaches until you find what is best for you and your students” is one of many lessons I took from MTW and this has been a part of me anytime am engaging learners.

Having more training and experience from MTW and being a lead facilitator, I have acquired so many skills sets as to the various roles a lead facilitator should play to make my class a lively one for all. The diversion of students attention to key points on a map and asking them to explain what they see in their own words and suggest ways to visualize their ideas differently is one of the skills that always keeps my class active and more interactive and this makes everyone feels comfortable contributing their opinions, even if it differs from those around them.

Also as a facilitator I have come to understand that every student has a learning style, some like to watch and listen, others like to read and write and some prefer hands on experiences. In my “books” the idea that people with disabilities are somehow less than their peers is not just offensive but also incorrect! I believe that everyone has a different level of ability and we should respect everyone regardless of their limitations or advantages. No one deserves to be treated unjustly because they do not fit into societal norms and this is why MTW never discriminate but includes everyone to learn in their diverse ways. Encouraging equal participation for both boys and girls in all activities and sessions we facilitates is very essential to us as an organization in order to promote gender-sensitive teaching in class.We as MTW facilitators have been trained to adopt gender-sensitive teaching methods that promote equality in the classroom. This includes using inclusive language and avoiding gender stereotypes.

Since the inception of this program, I can gladly say that MTW has helped students benefit from these projects by gaining new skills and knowledge in economic growth, social inclusion, gender equality, quality Education, clean water and sanitation etc. and they are encouraged to think about the world around them and how they can make a difference. This however has made their confidence grow as they share their knowledge with others. With improved and unlimited supply of teaching and learning materials (TLMs) from MTW, learning becomes more easier for both facilitators and learners, classroom becomes more inclusive that no child feels left out. Resources like MTW passports, card games, gift bags and others allows students to be exposed to new learning skills and this creates safe spaces where students can discuss issues related to gender and sexuality without fear of discrimination or harassment.

Promoting quality education and gender equality is an ongoing process that requires commitment and effort. But by taking a step, i believe one  can make a positive impact on the lives of students and help to create a more equal and inclusive society.

Becoming Part of the Family

Have a read from our incredible University of Bath Work Placement Intern, Anita Beljanina.
We are so fortunate to have her part of the team!

Since the launch of Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, free, equitable and quality education has been in the centre of social and economic development. During my postgraduate studies in University of Bath, I learned, however, that in many African countries the education system struggles and there are many inequalities between the rich and poor; girls and boys. For various reasons, governments alone in these countries are not able to provide accessible and quality education. This is why non-governmental organisations, charities and the private sector step in to ensure that every child can enjoy the benefits of education. 

It was February 2023 when I first learned about Move the World and the work they do in Ghana. As completing work experience is part of my degree, I decided to apply for the charity’s grants officer position. Soon after I was warmly welcomed into the team and assigned my first tasks. I’ve always been passionate about education and sustainability which is also one of the reasons why I was keen to support Move the World and its Global Citizenship Education programmes.  As part of the small UK based team, I help the charity with fundraising efforts, communicating with trusts and foundations, data entry, and other important organisational tasks. 

Move the World is made up of so many talented and kind women that inspire me everyday. We all come from very different backgrounds which makes working together so much more fun and motivating. I’ve spent most of my life in Estonia, a little country in Northern Europe, before moving to the United Kingdom for my university studies. Everyday life there is so much different to life in the UK, Ghana or even North America. Every culture has something different to offer and I love learning from my colleagues and friends about their experiences and traditions.

Being part of Move the World has given me the opportunity to grow as a person and as a professional, and to contribute to a meaningful cause that I care about. I feel lucky and grateful to be surrounded by such amazing women who support each other and share a common vision of sustainable community development. 

Emmanuel’s MTW Journey.. so far

Emmanuel, Co-Chair, has been with MTW since 2017 when he came on board as our first MTW Ghana Director. He has since transitioned onto the board and now co-chair position.
Have a read of his journey – what an incredible human!

I became a trustee of Move The World almost 4 years ago, and currently in my second term of
service. The experience has been incredibly valuable and my decision to offer to extend my term
reflects the fact that the benefit has been two way. So, what has been my trustee journey.
The pivotal moment came in 2017 when I joined Move The World (MTW) as the Ghana Director after
magically discovering MTW on Twitter (yes, Elon’s bird app). After following activities of the
organisation for a few months, I found a recruitment ad for a Director position. I hastefully applied
and no I didn’t have to wait long before hearing back. The recruiting process was very organized and
prompt, which made me positive about my soon-to-be new place of work.
After working with the team and the Medie Community for nearly 2 years, I moved on to take up a
new position with the German Development Cooperation in Ghana. By this time, I had seen
colleagues and community members become family members because of the deep experiences we
shared. I was very humbled to be considered for a Trustee position as I saw this a validation of some
of the work that I had done earlier but also an opportunity to continue to actively belong and
contribute to this amazing Organisation.


Life Long Friends
Making lifelong friends through a team experience is one of the greatest benefits of being part of a
team. When you work closely with others towards a shared goal, you have the opportunity to form
strong bonds and create meaningful connections that can last a lifetime. Both as a Director and as a
Trustee, I had the opportunity to meet very great people who have achieved so much professionally
but are also extremely good people. If there is one thing MTW is blessed with, it must be attracting
good people. I have benefitted from the counsel and mentorship of local community members of
Medie but also Team members of MTW.
As a charity trustee, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated and passionate
individuals who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities. Serving as a
trustee has allowed me to contribute my skills and expertise towards a worthy cause, and to work
collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals to achieve our shared goals.


Leadership Journey
My leadership journey has taken many unexpected turns over the years, and I wouldn’t have it any
other way. I was fortunate enough to directly work with Claire and Megan as my bosses during my
time as a director. I observed and learned from the strategic thought process and “hands on”
mentality of the duo. The founders created a culture of flat hierarchy in the organisation leading to
growth opportunities and great office relationships. This fascinated me a lot considering the amount
of work we got done as this was a bit of a deviation from what I had been exposed to at the time. I
can say that these leadership lessons have shaped my mindset around leadership and has
fundamentally changed the trajectory of my life and career.
I am also constantly inspired by the resilience and dedication of the individuals and organizations
that we work with. Despite the challenges that they may face (particularly during the height of
COVID-19), they remain committed to their missions and are always seeking ways to improve and
grow.


Being a Sailboat
At MTW, we see ourselves more as Sailboats as opposed to speedboats. We focus more on long
term sustainable impact and less of short-lived effect. Being a sailboat challenges us to avoid chasing
after shiny objects but trusting in the cumulating power of baby steps over time.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a charity trustee is seeing the impact of our work first-
hand. Whether it’s through providing support and resources in the communities we work in,
promoting awareness of important issues, or facilitating meaningful change within our communities,
the work that we do as trustees has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives.
It has been a significant development opportunity for me. I think most people think about
Trusteeships as an opportunity to give back, and it certainly is that, but it is a practical process, you
learn by doing it and the skills and competencies you develop as a result, in my opinion rival any
development training I could have been offered.
Overall, serving as a charity trustee has been a truly fulfilling experience, and I would encourage
anyone who is passionate about making a positive impact in their community to consider getting
involved in this meaningful work.